Adrienne Clarkson

From refugee to GG in a single lifetime

At just three years of age, Adrienne Clarkson and her family were rescued from wartime strife in Hong Kong and moved to safety in Ottawa, Canada. Growing up, she acquired a college diploma and university degree before leaving to travel in Asia. Upon her return to Canada she launched into a career in broadcast journalism. As a regular fixture on Canadian national television she went from strength to strength, often hosting her own programmes.

In 2005, after more than two decades on the public stage, she was appointed Governor General of Canada, the official representative of Her Majesty the Queen. During her tenure, Clarkson broke new ground in the role by promoting Canada internationally and supporting the men and women of the Armed Forces.

Since leaving office, she has founded an institute to help migrants fit into Canadian society.